*UPDATED* Meyer to face Pall in race for Petoskey mayor's seat

As Petoskey mayor Dale Meyer seeks re-election this fall, he'll face a challenge from his predecessor in the position, Ted Pall.

Meyer, 54, and Pall, 48, took the two slots available for mayoral candidates during Wednesday's annual city convention at North Central Michigan College. They were the only candidates receiving nominations from convention delegates.

A co-owner of Meyer Ace Hardware, Meyer first became mayor in 2006.

"I think my whole objective in this is providing a better quality of life for the people that live here and the people that visit," he said.

Meyer noted that he'd like to see the city continue pursuing improvements in areas such as recreation and streets.

Making sure that utilities continue to meet local needs is another objective Meyer sees.

Pall, an anesthesiologist, served as mayor during 2005.

"I'm basically running because there are some significant differences I have with the mayor on some of the current issues that are affecting the city," he said.

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The stalled Petoskey Pointe hotel/condominium project is one such issue. The city has an agreement with the project's developers to acquire part of its parking garage when complete.

One step Pall would like to see officials take is an immediate, firsthand discussion with an attorney to consider the city's legal options regarding Petoskey Pointe.

Pall also noted that he'd like to see the city re-establish the Mayor's Youth Council or a reasonable alternative, explore options for a local historic district downtown and resume advertising for candidates interested in serving on boards and commissions. The mayoral hopeful also said he's willing to consider concerns some residents have voiced about the Petoskey Department of Public Safety, try to clear up potential misconceptions, ensure an adequate complaint process and take steps to rebuild trust in the department.

Several residents took opportunities at the convention to discuss local issues. One noted a concern about vehicles parking on sidewalks. Desires were voiced for reviving the Mayor's Youth Council and for installing a pedestrian signal at U.S. 31 and Lake Street that displays the time available for crossing the street.

Some residents recently have been curious about the progress of the city's efforts to acquire a railroad right-of-way running through town. This corridor is proposed for use by pedestrians as well as a city trolley currently in storage. Meyer noted that city officials continue to seek the property from the Michigan Department of Transportation, though he believes "MDOT is very cautious as to how they're going to release those properties."

Filling the ballot

Prospective candidates for Petoskey's mayoral and city council seats still can obtain spots on the November ballot by obtaining petition signatures. Paperwork must be submitted to city officials by Monday, Aug. 4.